The Curator’s Eye (http://www.CuratorsEye.com/), the global high-end art marketing organization, announced today the appointment of Mr. Craig Wallen as carpet and textile specialist dealer representative. From his Philadelphia base, Mr. Wallen is responsible for cultivating partnerships within the international antique rug and textile dealer community as well as the art and antiques dealers in the Philadelphia region.

Mr. Wallen comes to The Curator's Eye with a wide range of experience in academia and the corporate sector. After completing graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania with a focus on international relations, economics and the Middle East, he worked in international risk management. He also developed, delivered and managed computer training programs for a major urban hospital and academic medical school, directed sales and operations for an IBM training facility, and managed client projects for PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting.

Meanwhile, Mr. Wallen pursued his interest in rare oriental rugs and textiles both as a collector and as a specialist dealer. Nine years ago, he opened his own retail gallery space with a focus on antique rugs and textiles, and has since developed into a leading expert with a worldwide clientele. He has completed appraisal studies coursework through New York University, and his articles have appeared in a variety of publications, including the foremost international journal on antique rugs and textiles, Hali. His gallery was featured in Art & Antiques Magazine, Hali, and others, and he has been an invited speaker at the Textile Museum and other venues.

Founder and CEO Sarah Hollenbeck Valelly notes, “Craig brings extensive business experience as well as a collector’s passion to The Curator’s Eye. As we continue to expand our connections throughout specialized dealer communities, it is important to understand the unique market forces affecting our members.”

According to Deloitte’s Art Market Report, “the art market is going through a major transformation, in terms of its geographical reach and structure, [and] the way that the internet, technology and information are changing how art is promoted, valued and transacted.” The Curator’s Eye exists to help dealers compete with market leaders Christie’s and Sotheby’s by giving them access to the same clients that traffic the auction houses and high end art shows, but through an online structure.

As the art world expands into emerging markets and younger generations do more and more research online, The Curator’s Eye is poised to facilitate these initial virtual connections. Today, collectors from Monaco, India, France, Brazil, and Russia are among the registered users from over eighty countries. To contact Mr. Wallen, email Craig.Wallen@CuratorsEye.com. To view outstanding items available from the top dealers across the world, visit http://www.CuratorsEye.com/.